Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne will defend himself against a sex assault charge by saying he has a propensity to kiss people "in a non-sexual manner", a court heard.

The 51-year-old was arrested while travelling on a train between York and Newcastle for allegedly kissing a woman without consent in Darlington in August.

Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne, centre, leaves Teesside Crown Court in Middlesbrough, where he was charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a train. Pic: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire.

He appeared at Teesside Crown Court today to enter a 'not guilty' plea to the single charge of sexual assault.

He will apply for legal aid to be represented by a QC, as the case is being prosecuted by a barrister of the same seniority.

His barrister Michelle Heeley QC told the court that a number of character witnesses will give evidence "about his propensity to kiss people in a non-sexual manner".

During the 10-minute hearing, Gascoigne had to be asked to be quiet by the Recorder of Middlesbrough, Judge Simon Bourne-Arton.

Former England footballer Paul Gascoigne kisses a member of his security team at Teesside Crown Court in Middlesbrough, where he was charged with sexually assaulting a woman on a train. Pic: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire.

The former player, wearing a blue suit and an open neck shirt, appeared upset when he sat in the dock.

He stated his full name, date of birth and when he was asked his nationality, replied: "English, Protestant."

After hearing his trial could not be accommodated before October 14, Gascoigne called out: "Sir, Your Honour."

The judge replied: "Be quiet."

Gascoigne said: "I'm worried to bits. I'm scared."

He then apologised to the judge.

His solicitor, who was in court while his barrister was appearing via a videolink, then went to speak to Gascoigne in the dock.